Abstract: A battery including a plurality of bipolar electrodes and non-conductive separators, each having first and second surfaces. A carbon coating is applied on the first surface of each of the plurality of carbon plastic electrodes, and each separator is disposed in spaced, sandwich relation with respect to two of the plurality of electrodes. The electrodes and separators define a plurality of electrochemical cells, including a plurality of anodic half-cells, and a plurality of cathodic half-cells. A high surface area carbon material is disposed in, and completely fills, each cathodic half-cell, and an electrolyte is disposed in each half-cell. A spacer is disposed in each anodic half-cell. The spacer may be a mesh or screen made from polymeric material. The spacer may also be an aggregated glass mat.

Abstract: A fastener assembly for engaging a lattice-like structure, which includes a plurality of substantially horizontally oriented and vertically oriented components, and wherein the fastener assembly includes a first portion, a second portion which matingly interfits with the second portion thereby forming an assembled unit and which further includes individual portions which interact with at least one of the components of the lattice; an object of interest borne by the assembled unit and operable to be releasably secured on the assembled unit; and a fastener operable to engage the assembled unit and the object of interest thereby securing the assembled unit and the object of interest on the lattice-like structure.

Abstract: An improved orthodontic appliance is described which includes a main body manufactured from a polymeric material. A polycrystalline diamond coating is deposited on the main body. The coating has a thickness greater than 0.5 microns and is substantially transparent to the visible light spectrum and is deposited at a temperature of less than 140.degree. C.

Abstract: A lumbar support for a seat which has a back and a seat portion. The back of the seat contains the lumbar support and is adapted to recline with respect to the seat portion. The lumbar support includes two flexible lumbar supports, a fixed support member, a movable support member, a track for guiding the movable support member along a predetermined path of travel, and an assembly for advancing the movable support member to adjust the curvature of the flexible lumbar supports.

Abstract: A fastener assembly for engaging a lattice-like structure. The fastener assembly includes a main body having individual portions which interact with a vertical component of the lattice. An object of interest, having a plate upon which an emblem or decorative ornament may be mounted, is borne by the main body and operable to be releasably secured on it. The object of interest may be fastened or otherwise fixed to the main body by a fastener which is operable to engage the main body and the object of interest thus securing the main body and the object of interest on the lattice-like structure.

Abstract: A purposeful exercise device including a frame; a pump mounted on the frame; and a work-adjusting mechanism movably borne by the frame and disposed in force-transmitting relation relative to the pump. The pump has a handle which is moveable along a path of travel from a first or fluid withdrawing position to a second or fluid exhausting position. The work-adjusting mechanism permits a patient or operator to selectively adjust the amount of work performed when moving the pump handle from the fluid withdrawing position to the fluid exhausting position or vice versa.